Credit Certificate Program (327P) - Gettysburg / Harrisburg / Lancaster
After successful completion of the practical nursing program, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN to be certified by the State Board of Nursing.
About the program - curriculum and costs
Nursing Advanced Standing for LPNs
Admission Criteria and Essential Qualifications (Legal, Physical and Emotional Requirements) (pdf)
Program accreditation
Who to contact
Careers in Nursing - What's the Difference?
Description of Occupation - Practical nurses are integral members of the health care team. They function under the direction of a physician, dentist, or registered nurse in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, doctors’ offices and home care. Practical nurses meet the basic needs of patients by providing for comfort and safety through feeding, bathing, dressing, assisting with personal hygiene, and caring for their emotional needs. In addition, practical nurses administer medications, carry out therapeutic procedures such as vital signs, dressing changes, collecting specimens and observe/report symptoms and responses to treatment. Practical nurses may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and potentially hazardous materials.
Practical nurses perform selected nursing acts using therapeutic communication techniques, the nursing process, and sound judgment based on knowledge and nursing skills. They provide consistent safe nursing care and participate as an effective member of the health care team. They accept responsibility for personal and professional continuing education and demonstrate accountability in nursing practices.
Practical nurses need to have excellent communication skills and be able to work in stressful and crisis situations. Problem solving skills, organizational skills, and an ability to prioritize and work well with others is essential. Other vital characteristics include motivation, integrity, maturity and ability to accept constructive criticism.
Practical nurses perform selected nursing acts using therapeutic communication techniques, the nursing process, and sound judgment based on knowledge and nursing skills. They provide consistent safe nursing care and participate as an effective member of the health care team. They accept responsibility for personal and professional continuing education and demonstrate accountability in nursing practices.
Places of Employment and Outlook - Practical nursing is the 19th fastest growing occupation requiring post-secondary or associate's degree training in Pennsylvania 1998-2008.Employment opportunities are excellent! Practical nurses are employed in a variety of health care settings, including long-term, acute care, outpatient, physician's offices, and home-health.
Salary Range for Geographical Area - $38,400 median salary in Pennsylvania 2007
Educational Advancement - Many practical nursing graduates seek additional education to become a registered nurse or pursue HACC's Associate in Health Science degree. A bridge program is offered at HACC between the practical nursing and the nursing program.
